At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver attentive service and guide guests through a unique small plates menu.
- Company: The Parakeet, an acclaimed independent pub and dining room in Kentish Town.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, 50% off at venues, training opportunities, and fun incentives.
- Other info: Opportunities for global industry trips and recognition for top performers.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant team and enhance your hospitality skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience or interest in small plate service and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 12.75 - 12.75 £ per hour.
Located in the heart of Kentish Town, The Parakeet is an independent public house and dining room. In the front, a lively neighbourhood pub. In the back, an award-winning dining room serving Basque-inspired small plates cooked over coal and fire. Led by chef Ben Allen, the kitchen has received critical acclaim from The Times, The Evening Standard, and more.
As a Server, you'll be right at the centre of the guest experience, with a strong focus on small plate, sharing-style service. You'll guide guests through the menu, help them build their meal, pace the table, and ensure dishes land at the right time to create a seamless, flowing experience. This isn't traditional starters and mains. It's about reading the table, understanding timing, and delivering a service that feels natural, informed and well-paced. It's a great opportunity for someone who enjoys food-led service, wants to deepen their knowledge, and takes pride in getting the details right.
What you'll do:
- Run your own section, delivering confident, attentive and well-paced service
- Guide guests through a small plates menu, helping them choose and sequence dishes
- Manage table pacing, ensuring dishes are fired and delivered in a smooth, considered flow
- Communicate clearly with the kitchen to coordinate timing and table progression
- Build rapport with guests and create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
- Stay across the details, from table management to resetting and service standards
What we're looking for:
- Experience or interest in small plate or sharing-style service
- Strong communication and the ability to read the table and adapt your approach
- A genuine interest in food, flavours and how dishes come together
- Attention to detail and pride in delivering a well-paced service
- A positive, team-focused attitude
- A desire to learn, grow and develop in hospitality
What to expect:
- Competitive Pay: £12.75 per hour plus tronc (total package usually in the range of £12.75- £15.00 per hour). Hourly wages paid every two weeks on a Friday and tronc paid on the last Friday of the month.
- You'll learn how to deliver thoughtful, food-led service with a focus on timing and flow
- You'll build real knowledge of small plate dining and guest interaction
- You'll be part of a team that works closely with the kitchen to get every detail right
- You'll be trusted with responsibility and supported to develop your skills
Why you'll love working with us:
- 50% off across all Columbo venues, plus free access to our events and festivals
- Training and development through the Columbo Academy
- Hero of the Month recognition, including a paid weekend off
- £50 voucher for top drinks seller incentives
- Generous Referral Scheme
- Opportunities for global industry trips for top performers
Server in City of Westminster employer: The Parakeet
The Parakeet is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant Kentish Town, offering a dynamic work environment that blends a lively pub atmosphere with an award-winning dining experience. Employees benefit from competitive pay, extensive training through the Columbo Academy, and unique perks such as 50% off at all Columbo venues and opportunities for global industry trips. With a strong focus on personal growth and a supportive team culture, The Parakeet is the perfect place for those passionate about food-led service to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Server in City of Westminster
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like The Parakeet. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Parakeet
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Parakeet directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Server in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about The Parakeet and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Parakeet
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
